The Sedona International Film Festival officially kicked off tonight with a new addition to the week’s festivities, the “Oscars on the Rocks” hosted by Harkin’s Theatres. Independent film lovers cheered wildly as the film of the year, Slumdog Millionaire took home EIGHT little gold men. What a fitting start to the week ahead, sure to be jam-packed with dozens of inspiring films, exciting festivities, celebrity sightings, workshops and more.
The Sedona International Film Festival gives film lovers a rare opportunity to rub elbows with filmmakers, directors, actors, and cinematographers from all over the world. Imagine, for example, if you could watch Slumdog Millionaire and then as the credits rolled, in walked Frieda Pinto, Dev Patel and Danny Boyle to answer your questions on their inspiration and involvement in the movie.
Although Slumdog is not on the Sedona Film Festival ticket this week, many exciting Oscar-nominated films following in its footsteps will be screened over a course of 6 solid days of non-stop film-euphoria. Actors Jane Seymour, James Keach, Robert Osborne, and Marla Sokoloff will also be in Sedona for the screenings of their new movies so keep your eyes peeled for celebrity sightings. Previous celebrity attendees have included Ned Beatty, Nick Nolte, Ed Asner, Kimberly Williams-Paisley, and Lainie Kazaan to name a few.
If you plan to live on popcorn and nachos all week long so you won’t miss a single film, read ahead to see how you can squeeze a little “Sedona” into your week as well. If you’d like to catch a flavor of the Film Fest, pick a film and attend – it’s impossible not to get caught up in the contagious enthusiasm of the week. Scroll down for a complete list of this week’s festivities.
Be forewarned, many films have already SOLD OUT or will soon so head straight to http://www.sedonafilmfestival.com/ to book your tickets now if you want to attend!
Before, After or In-between Films, Squeeze in a Little Bit of Sedona
(Within walking or short-driving distance of the Film Festival)
- SHOPPING: Right next door to Harkin’s Theater is the Art Mart of Sedona featuring the works of dozens of local artists and retailers. Discover handmade jewelry, designer women’s and children’s clothing, furniture, home decor and more at artist direct prices. The highly sought-after Sedona International Film Festival Posters will also be available at the Art Mart.
- EATS: Java Love Cafe is the place where the locals go for fresh coffee roasted right on site, gourmet breakfast and lunch choices at deli prices, wi-fi, and nightly entertainment. I heard a rumor they were getting a liquor license soon so you might even be able to grab a brew while you’re there! Looking for a local brew, specialty pizzas and delectable desserts? Try Picazzo’s of Sedona where PIZZA IS ART! My favorite is The Vortex which is a step-up from a supreme-style pizza. For an appetizer, try “Mama’s Meatballs”, for dessert – yes, you are required to order dessert – you MUST try a giant cookie fresh out of the oven, covered in ice cream and gooey chocolate topping. Part of the proceeds from your delightful cookie purchase go to support Breast Cancer Research!
- HEALTH & DINING: New Frontiers Natural Marketplace, FESTIVAL SPONSORS – the best Natural Health Food and Sedona’s favorite deli. Choose from breakfast, lunch and dinner specialties off the menu or grab a healthy snack from the Salad Bar or Grocery Department.
- FUN: Jeep Tours! You can’t come to Sedona and NOT go on a jeep tour of the red rock country! There’s no better way to see the hoodoos, spires and formations of Sedona’s beautiful red rocks. Last year, Pink Jeep was offering pick-up and drop-off in the Harkin’s Theater parking lot. Will they be there again this year? If not, just call 282-5000.
- Want to learn more about Sedona in general? Visit http://www.sedona.tv/ or watch our Sedona Overview video below:
Film Festival Schedule of Events for the Rest of the Week:
Monday, Feb. 23 is Preview Night with a reception at the theatre. The Festival officially begins Tuesday, Feb. 24 with a full day of screenings, a tribute to Seymour and Keach and the Opening Night Party at Sedona Rouge.
Screenings continue the rest of the week with Osborne’s Classic Series starting Wednesday, Feb. 25 with Singin’ In the Rain. A Meet the Filmmakers Reception is scheduled that evening at the Festival Pavilion, sponsored by the Sedona Film Office/Sedona Chamber of Commerce.
On Friday, Feb. 27, the “Cast Party” Gala and Honoree Tribute is scheduled at the Hilton Sedona Resort & Spa. A filmmaker party on Saturday, Feb. 28 promises to be an exciting gathering of the “who’s who” of the festival.
Festival award-winners will be announced at the annual Awards Brunch at L’Auberge de Sedona on Sunday, March 1. A very special closing night film is planned for Sunday, March 1 followed by the closing ceremonies at Reds Restaurant at Sedona Rouge.
Tickets can be purchased online at our Purchase Passes Link or by calling (928) 282-1177.
For additional information, call (928) 282-1177.
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